akins station

Seoul News

Headline News

As of June 15, 2025, Seoul is navigating complex inter-Korean relations and strengthening international partnerships. The newly elected President Lee Jae-myung is pushing for renewed engagement with North Korea, leading to Seoul weighing legal measures to crack down on activist groups launching anti-regime leaflets across the border. This move aims to create "an atmosphere of peace" and ensure the safety of border residents. Concurrently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Korea Housing Finance Corporation (KHFC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance affordable housing and strategic housing finance cooperation, signaling strengthened ties between the two nations.

Business News

On June 15, 2025, Seoul's business community is closely monitoring inter-Korean relations and global trade dynamics. President Lee Jae-myung's administration is taking "concrete countermeasures" against leaflet launches to ease cross-border tensions, which could have implications for business stability in border regions. South Korea is also actively strengthening cooperation with Asia-Pacific economies to address global trade uncertainties, as highlighted by Trade Minister Inkyo Cheong's high-level bilateral talks with 14 APEC member economies. These discussions aim to enhance trade and economic cooperation, particularly in advanced industries, hydrogen, and supply chain resilience, directly impacting Seoul's role as a regional economic hub.

Economic News

Seoul's economic outlook as of June 15, 2025, indicates a proactive approach by the South Korean government to support economic recovery. The government plans to unveil an additional extra budget bill worth at least 20 trillion won (approximately $14.6 billion USD) to spur domestic consumption, potentially including a cash handout program and local currency vouchers. This marks the second supplementary budget plan this year, following a previous 13.8 trillion-won budget passed last month. These measures come as the Korean economy faces mounting downward pressure due to sluggish domestic demand, particularly in consumption and construction investment, and challenges from U.S. tariff measures.

Political News

On June 15, 2025, Seoul's political landscape is marked by the recent snap presidential election. Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party was elected President of South Korea on June 2, following the impeachment and removal of former President Yoon Suk Yeol in April. Lee secured victory with approximately 49% of the vote, and his party now holds a majority in the National Assembly. His administration is focused on reducing tensions with North Korea and maintaining a strong alliance with the US and Japan. Lee is also expected to face ongoing legal hearings for past charges, which may influence his early term.

Election News

As of June 15, 2025, South Korea recently concluded a snap presidential election on June 2, 2025. This early election was triggered by the impeachment and removal of former President Yoon Suk Yeol on April 4, 2025. Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party emerged victorious, becoming the new President of South Korea. The election saw high voter turnout, exceeding 79%, reflecting significant public engagement amidst a period of political instability. Lee Jae-myung's victory means the Democratic Party now holds both the presidency and a majority in the National Assembly.

Employment News

Seoul's employment situation as of June 15, 2025, is characterized by ongoing discussions and challenges, particularly concerning youth employment and foreign domestic worker programs. South Korea's pilot program for Filipino domestic workers is facing uncertainty and delays, with no clear path forward from the Ministry of Employment and Labor by mid-2025 due to labor disputes and skepticism from the new administration. The broader employment rate in May increased slightly, driven entirely by older workers, while the employment rate for those aged 15 to 29 fell. This highlights a persistent issue with the lack of quality jobs for younger generations in Korea.

Stock Market News

On June 15, 2025, Seoul's stock market showed renewed confidence among overseas investors. U.S.-listed Korean ETFs saw a significant surge in capital inflows, with the iShares MSCI Korea ETF receiving a net of $772.85 million between June 1 and 10. This reversal from previous outflows indicates revived investor interest in Korean assets, driven by the new administration's stock market-friendly stance and reform pledges. South Korean refiner Korea Zinc also announced an $85.2 million investment in deep-sea mining firm The Metals Co (TMC), acquiring a 5% stake, signaling a push into critical minerals for the US energy transition.

Seven-Day Weather Forecast

The forecast for Seoul, South Korea, from June 15, 2025, into the next seven days indicates a mix of clear skies, cloudiness, and periods of rain.

Sunday, June 15 (Yesterday): Clear in the morning, becoming cloudy with rain in the afternoon and evening. High 31∘C (88∘F), Low 21∘C (70∘F).
Monday, June 16 (Today): Intermittent rain in the morning, then mostly cloudy. High 28∘C (82∘F), Low 23∘C (73∘F).
Tuesday, June 17: Mostly cloudy in the morning, becoming clear in the afternoon. High 28∘C (82∘F), Low 22∘C (72∘F).
Wednesday, June 18: Mostly clear. High 29∘C (84∘F), Low 19∘C (66∘F).
Thursday, June 19: Mostly cloudy. High 29∘C (84∘F), Low 21∘C (70∘F).
Friday, June 20: Cloudy with rain in the evening. High 26∘C (79∘F), Low 22∘C (72∘F).
Saturday, June 21: Cloudy with rain. High 27∘C (81∘F), Low 21∘C (70∘F).

Entertainment News

On June 15, 2025, Seoul's vibrant K-pop scene was highlighted by the girl group ILLIT, which celebrated the release of its third EP, "bomb," with a showcase at Yes24 Live Hall on June 16. The group emphasized their relatable music and unique style. Additionally, a notable piece of entertainment news for fans was the reunion of BTS members, with Jungkook and Jin performing with J-Hope at a concert in Seoul, stirring excitement among their fanbase.